Magnesium is responsible for 300 important metabolic reactions. A few are explained below:(1*)

Energy Production: The process in which fats and carbohydrates are turned into energy requires magnesium.(2*)

Synthesis of Essential Molecules: Magnesium is needed for the synthesis of proteins, DNA and RNA (nucleic acids). Glutathione, which is an important antioxidant, also requires magnesium for synthesis.(3*)

Ion Transport Across Cell Membranes: Magnesium is required for ions such as calcium and potassium to move across cell membranes.(4*) Also, magnesium is utilized to maintain the proper rhythm of the heart, for muscle contraction and the conduction of nerve impulses.(5*)

Cell Signaling: Magnesium is required for cell signaling and used in protein phosphorylation that is a process that turns many enzymes on and off.(6*)

Cell Migration: Magnesium and calcium levels in the fluid that surround the cells influences the migration of those cells. This process comes into play when your body needs to heal wounds.(7*)

Diabetes Mellitus: Generally, the depletion of magnesium goes hand in hand with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) - 25-38% of people with diabetes have also been diagnosed with low magnesium levels in the blood (hypomagnesemia). The low levels of magnesium may result in an increased resistance to insulin and could negatively affect blood glucose levels.(8*)

Osteoporosis: Low magnesium levels may play a role in the development of osteoporosis.(9*)

Migraine Headaches: People who experience repeating migraine headaches may have intracellular magnesium levels lower than those who do not suffer from or experience migraines.(10*)